The rocket has graced the eyes of many traveling by the Ardmore Welcome Center for more than 40 years.
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center donated the rocket and since 1979 Saturn 1B has been on display. It is one of three vehicles in the Saturn group of rockets developed in Huntsville. The other two rockets are on display in Huntsville and at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
“Unless you have been up close to the rocket, you are not aware that it is not in very good shape,” Director of Alabama Tourism Department Lee Sentell said. “There has been some concerns about the safety of people around it.” “This rocket was never built to be outside for 40 to 50 years because rockets were built to be used one time. So the use of this rocket was never intended to last outside in the weather for more than 40 years,” Sentell said. “That’s a challenge right now to decide what should be done. Not doing anything is not the right answer.”
According to Sentell, in the 1980s he worked at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and recalls the moments when the doors opened. He explained that he has been a huge fan of the rocket since Ed Buckbee, the founder of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, suggested placing it at the Ardmore Welcome Center.
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